2026 BMW 3 Series 330i vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300
On paper, the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i wins on $1,650 less, 2 MPG better. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $1,650 price gap, 255 vs 255 hp, 31 vs 29 MPG.
The 3 Series 330i leads on $1,650 less, 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i | 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $48,000 | $49,650 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 255 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 35 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 31 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 17.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,850/yr | $2,000/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,644 lbs | 3,825 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 112.8" |
| Length | 185.9" | 187.0" |
| Width | 71.9" | 74.4" |
| Height | 56.8" | 56.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i and 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300?
The 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i starts at $48,000, $1,650 less than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 at $49,650. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $29/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i?
The 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,650 in your pocket and the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $93/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 is the stronger pick when you prefer the Mercedes-Benz approach to the compact car segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i or 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300?
The 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i rates 31 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i or 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300?
Both produce 255 hp.
Is the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i bigger than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 is 1.1″ longer at 187.0″ vs 185.9″. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 has a 0.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain.
Explore more: BMW trims, BMW 3 Series trims, Mercedes-Benz trims, Mercedes-Benz C-Class trims
How the 3 Series and C-Class Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i starts at $48,000; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 at $49,650. The $1,650 gap is about $29/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: 3 Series vs C-Class
Both run the same 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo engine. Both produce 255 hp. Both use RWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i saves roughly $93/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $465.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i when you want to keep $1,650 in your pocket and the 2026 BMW 3 Series 330i covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 when you prefer the Mercedes-Benz approach to the compact car segment. At $29/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with BMW or Mercedes-Benz or any dealership.